Preserving Benton County's Heritage Since 1949
Explore records, photographs, and stories from the people and places that shaped our community.
Search Our DatabaseWelcome to the Benton County Historical Society & Museum
Preserving the stories, artifacts, and heritage of Benton County, Minnesota since 1949.
Upcoming Event
Stories Among the Stones: A Lantern Tour of the Benton County Cemetery — Part II
October 15, 2026 • 5:30 PM • Benton County Cemetery
Join us for Part II of our popular lantern tour of the Benton County Cemetery — uncovering stories of those who came before us, including victims of the 1886 Cyclone and early settlers. Post-tour social hour with refreshments and a viewing of our authentic 1880s funeral coach.
Sauk Rapids, Benton Co., Minn.
📅 Today in History
United States
• 1860 Telegraph line between LA and SF opens
• 1934 Bruno Hauptmann is indicted for murder of Lindbergh's son
Minnesota
• The common loon is Minnesota’s state bird.
• On April 3, 1859, the Oscar F. Jackson acquittal helped trigger what became known as the Wright County War.
Benton County
• Benton County was one of the original nine counties formed in Minnesota Territory.
• William A. Aitkin served as chairman of Benton County’s first board of commissioners.
📷 Picture of the Day
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